Tofu Recipes: How to Cook with Tofu for Dinner, Breakfast, Sides, and Dessert

Johnny Miller

From chili to ramen, this protein-packed ingredient is so much more than an alternative to meat. Here, learn how to use it in a variety of different dinner-worthy recipes. We even have ideas for using tofu as the star ingredient in breakfast, sides, and desserts.

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Johnny Miller

An extremely versatile ingredient, tofu can take on so many different flavors and be cooked in many different ways. You can even change its texture by blending it for creamy salad dressing or breading and baking for a vegetarian take on "chicken fingers." There are so many unlikely uses for this under-appreciated ingredient. Case in point? Our recipe for Grilled Tofu with Chimichurri on Toast, which is pictured here.

Looking for more creative dinner ideas that star tofu? Start with our takeout-inspired mains, including our recipe for Mapo Tofu, served with rice, which is out of this world. Kick up the heat by cooking soft, silken tofu with bean chili sauce, fermented chili bean paste, and Szechuan peppercorns. The ground pork gives the dish heft, and ginger, garlic, and scallions add brightness. Another favorite is our recipe for Gingery Tofu Ramen Bowls, which come together in under one hour. The recipe is simple, but it doesn't skimp on flavor.

We also have some delicious sides, such as our crispy tofu fries. Next time you have a craving for French fries, try these instead! They're super satisfying, especially when served with Sriracha mayo, scallions, and a squeeze of lime.

Why not serve tofu for dessert, too? This Roasted Cherries with Tofu "Panna Cotta" is a delightful, dairy-free iteration of the traditional gelatin-based Italian treat. Juicy fruit soaked in syrup is an eye-catching and flavorful topping for creamy tofu. And would you believe that we even have a tofu recipe for breakfast? Who would want to stay in bed when the smell of cinnamon and banana is awaiting them in the kitchen? Start your day with our Vegan Banana French Toast; the custard is made with silken tofu, almond milk, maple syrup, and vanilla. You'd never guess that it's completely dairy-free.

From Asian-inspired bowls to sweet recipes that bookend your day, enjoy our tofu recipes whenever you want a protein-packed meal.

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Gingery Tofu Ramen Bowls

Ren Fuller

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Delicious, Satisfying Tofu Recipes to Get You Out of Your Usual Cooking Routine

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Gingery Tofu Ramen Bowls

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Smoky Tofu Chili

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Ginger-Lemongrass Broth with Noodles, Silken Tofu, and Broccoli

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Tofu with Ginger-Cilantro Sauce

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Freezer Burritos

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Roasted Cherries with Tofu "Panna Cotta"

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Soba-Noodle Bowl with Tofu

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Miso Soup

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Vegan Banana French Toast

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Mapo Tofu

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Chinese Corn-and-Mushroom Soup

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Crispy Fried Tofu

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Lumpia

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Tofu with Baby Bok Choy and Rice Noodles

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Tofu with Tomatoes, Basil, and Mint

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Tofu Kebabs with Cilantro Sauce

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"Barbecued" Tofu

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Tofu Scramble with Cotija Cheese and Tortillas

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Soy-Maple Broiled Tofu with Broccoli

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Pad Thai Classic Stir-Fried Noodles

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